YouFilm

Regional amateur filmmakers are asked to submit their best works as part of First Night Saratoga this year, which for the first time is hosting a “Festival of Short Films.”

The annual New Year’s celebration had shown “indie” films from the Upstate Independents Film Club in the past, but this year will have its first own film contest for students and adults, coordinator Maureen Duda says.

Students ages 6 to 18 can submit short films on DVD of 10 minutes or less. They must be suitable for family viewing, and selected films will be shown on New Year’s Eve. Awards will be given in three age categories (6-9, 10-13, 14-18).

Ten minute films produced by adults are also being accepted for consideration for screening, and must also be family-friendly in content.

The film fest is coordinated with the YMCA of Saratoga with local filmmaker Dan Masucci. Entry forms and further info are available from the YMCA (583-9622 ext. 132), or e-mail Maureen@ymcasaratoga.org. Deadline for submissions is Dec. 1.